Response to Allegations of Atrocities in the Former Yugoslavia Depicted in “Operation Storm” Video

The United States condemns all war crimes committed during the wars in the former Yugoslavia, regardless of the ethnic or religious identity of the victim or perpetrator. We welcome the fact that the authorities in Bosnia and Herzegovina, Croatia and Serbia are cooperating on an investigation into the acts depicted in the recently aired video footage allegedly from Operation Storm, and we encourage them to complete their work as rapidly as possible.

Atrocities were committed by all sides of the conflicts with varying levels of planning and organization, and we condemn any attempts to exploit these tragedies for political advantage. We continue to urge the governments in the region to investigate all allegations of war crimes, to prosecute those responsible, and to cooperate with other regional governments to ensure that perpetrators are brought to justice. We will continue to support efforts to accomplish these goals made by governments, NGO’s, and the many others in the region and beyond committed to advancing the rule of law. Holding individuals accountable for these crimes, and moving beyond collectivization of guilt of entire groups, is vital to ensuring stability, security and reconciliation in the region.

2006/757